“I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway” (1 Cor. 9:27)
Here, Paul speaks in terms of fighting in a boxing match, as in the Olympic Games. But notice who the opponent is: “I keep under my body and bring it into subjection”. The opponent is our own selves. It is what Paul terms elsewhere “the body of sin” (Rom.6:6) and “the body of this death” (Rom.7:24). It is our own sinful nature – hence we are told to bring “into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ” (2Cor.10:5).
Paul also recognised that it would be possible for him to become “a castaway” if he did not keep his body under control. It is often claimed that once a person “accepts Jesus as their Lord”, that they are irrevocably saved, and that there is nothing that can change that situation. But this is not so, for Messiah himself taught that in the day of judgment, “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name cast out demons? And in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity” (Mat.7:22-23).
According to Jesus then, even some who recognise him as Lord will be rejected. Jude describes them as “these be they that separate themselves” (Jude 1:19). But following the example of Paul, we must contend against our mortal flesh, lest we become separated also. Hence Peter also instruct us to: “give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fail” (2Pet.1:10). If we are diligent and faithful to the Lord, then the promise will “be sure” (Rom.4:16) to us. But if we depart from the way of life, then we will remain in the congregation of the dead (Prov.21:16) having no hope. It’s essential to find and obey The Truth.
Christopher Maddocks
